Buoyancy pump device

ABSTRACT

A buoyancy pump device for use in fluid. The buoyancy pump device includes a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid may flow. A buoyancy block is disposed within the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second direction responsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber. A piston cylinder is connected to the buoyancy block housing and has at least one valve disposed therein operating as an inlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction. A piston is slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected to the buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and second directions and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction to draw a gas or liquid substance into the piston cylinder through the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction to output the gas or liquid substance through the at least one valve.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates, in general, to a pumping device, and moreparticular but not by way of limitation, to a buoyancy pumping devicethat utilizes a moving volume of water to move gas, liquid andcombinations thereof from a first location to a second location.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There have been many attempts to harness what is commonly referred as towave phenomena and to translate energy observed in wave phenomena intousable, reliable energy sources. Wave phenomena involves thetransmission of energy and momentum by means by vibratory impulsesthrough various states of matter, and in the case of electromagneticwaves for example, through a vacuum. Theoretically, the medium itselfdoes not move as the energy passes through. The particles that make upthe medium simply move in a translational or angular (orbital) patterntransmitting energy from one to another. Waves, such as those on anocean surface, have particle movements that are neither longitudinal nortransverse. Rather, movement of particles in the wave typically involvecomponents of both longitudinal and transverse waves. Longitudinal wavestypically involve particles moving back and forth in a direction ofenergy transmission. These waves transmit energy through all states ofmatter. Transverse waves typically involve particles moving back andforth at right angles to the direction of energy transmission. Thesewaves transmit energy only through solids. In an orbital wave, particlesmove in a orbital path. These waves transmit energy along an interfacebetween two fluids (liquids or gases).

Waves occurring for example on an ocean surface, typically involvecomponents of both the longitudinal wave and the transverse wave, sincethe particles in the ocean wave move in circular orbits at an interfacebetween the atmosphere and the ocean. Waves typically have severalreadily identifiable characteristics. Such characteristics include: thecrest, which is the highest point of the wave; the trough, which is thelowest point of the wave; the height, which is the vertical distancebetween a crest and trough; the wave length, which is the horizontaldistance between a crest and trough; the period, which is the time thatelapses during the passing of one wave length; the frequency, which isthe number of waves that passed at a fixed point per unit of time; andthe amplitude, which is half the height distance and equal to the energyof the wave.

There have been many attempts to harness and utilize energy produced bywave phenomena going back to the turn of the last century, such as thesystem disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 597,833, issued Jan. 25, 1898. Theseattempts have included erecting a sea wall to capture energy derivedfrom the wave phenomena; utilizing track and rail systems involvingcomplex machinations to harness energy from wave phenomena; developmentof pump systems that are adapted only for shallow water wave systems;and construction of towers and the like near the sea shore where the ebband flow of the tide occurs. Still other attempts have been made as wellwhich are not described in detail herein.

Each of these systems is replete with problems. For example, certainsystems which are adapted for sea water use are subjected accordingly tothe harsh environment. These systems involve numerous mechanical partswhich require constant maintenance and replacement, and therefore makethe system undesirable. Other systems are limited to construction onlyat sea shore or in shallow water, which limit placement of the systemsand therefore make the systems undesirable. Finally, other systems failto use the full energy provided by the wave phenomena, and thereforewaste energy through collection, resulting in an inefficient system.

Depletions in traditional energy sources, such as oil, have required theneed for an efficient alternate sources of energy. The greenhouseeffect, which is believed to be causes for such phenomena as globalwarming and the like, further establish the need for anenvironment-friendly energy creating device. The decline in readilyavailable traditional fuel sources has lead to an increase in the costsof energy, which is felt globally. This adds yet another need for thecreation of an environment-friendly, high efficiency, low cost energydevice.

The need for readily available, cheaper sources of energy are alsokeenly felt around the world. In places such as China for example,rivers are being dammed up to create a large energy supply for a fastand growing population. Such projects can take twenty or more years tofinish. The availability of the energy created by such a damming projectdoes not even begin until completion of the project. Accordingly, thereis yet another need for an energy device which provides energyimmediately upon construction and has a short construction period.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above identified problems and needs are solved by a buoyancy pumpdevice driven by waves or currents according to the principles of thepresent invention. The buoyancy pump device includes a buoyancy blockhousing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid mayflow. A buoyancy block is disposed within the buoyancy chamber to moveaxially therein in a first direction responsive to rising of the fluidin the buoyancy chamber and a second direction responsive to lowering ofthe fluid in the buoyancy chamber.

A piston cylinder is connected to the buoyancy block housing and has atleast one valve disposed therein operating as an inlet in response tomovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet inresponse to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction. Apiston is slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of the presentinvention may be obtained by reference to the following DetailedDescription, with like reference numerals denoting like elements, whentaken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded side-elevational view of a buoyancy pump device ina first embodiment in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the buoyancy pump device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B is a cross-section of FIG. 2A taken along line 2B-2B;

FIG. 2C is a side plan of the assembled buoyancy pump device of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A-3C are top plan, side, and isometric elevational views of anexemplary buoyancy block in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3D is a partial cross-section of an exemplary buoyancy block havinga telescoping portion;

FIGS. 3E-3F are top plan views of an exemplary adjustable base portionof an exemplary buoyancy block in a contracted configuration andexpanded configuration, respectively;

FIGS. 4A-4C are side views of the buoyancy pump device of FIG. 1 as awave passes through the buoyancy pump device;

FIG. 4D is a schematic illustration of an exemplary wave;

FIG. 5 is an elevated side view of an alternate embodiment of anexemplary buoyancy pump device;

FIG. 6 is an elevated side view of yet another embodiment of anexemplary buoyancy pump device;

FIG. 7 is an elevated side view of another embodiment of an exemplarybuoyancy pump device;

FIG. 8 is an elevated side view of yet another embodiment of anexemplary wave-pump another alternate embodiment of an buoyancy pumpdevice;

FIG. 9 is an elevated side view of another embodiment of an exemplarybuoyancy pump device;

FIG. 10 is an elevated side view of yet another embodiment of anexemplary buoyancy pump device; and

FIG. 11 is an elevated side view of a buoyancy pump device coupled to anexemplary aquiculture rig.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To solve the problems identified above, a buoyancy pump device isprovided to convert the potential energy that exists in the naturalmovement of very large volumes of water found in the form of, but notlimited to, oceans, lakes, and rivers in the form of swells and wavesinto mechanical energy at a relatively high efficiency. The buoyancypump device is adaptable to pump both gas and liquid, or combinations ofboth. As such and as referred to herein, gas is defined as both fluid orgas, thereby including both air and water. The pumped gas or liquid, asa mechanical energy source, may then be utilized to power turbines, airtools, ventilation, or any other mechanical devices using this form ofpower. The mechanical energy source may also be used for the creation ofelectrical energy utilizing similar mechanical conversion devices.

Referring now to FIG. 1 through FIG. 2C in combination, a buoyancy pumpdevice 100 is shown in various views according to a first embodiment ofthe present invention. The buoyancy pump device 100 includes a base 102,a buoyancy cylinder 104 connected at one end to the base 102 and closedat the other end by a buoyancy cylinder cap 106, and a piston cylinder108 connected at one end to the buoyancy cylinder cap 106 and alignedgenerally coaxially with the buoyancy cylinder 104. The other end of thepiston cylinder 108 is closed by a piston cylinder cap 110. The buoyancycylinder 104 is closed at one end by the upper surface of the base 102and at the other end by the buoyancy cylinder cap 106 to define abuoyancy chamber 112 therein.

A buoyancy block 114 generally cylindrical in shape is slideablypositioned within the buoyancy chamber 112 to move axially therein. Apiston shaft 116 connected to the upper end of the buoyancy block 114extends generally axially therefrom through an opening 118 in thebuoyancy cylinder cap 106. A piston 120 generally cylindrical in shapeis slideably positioned within the piston cylinder 108 and connected atthe lower end to the other end of the piston shaft 116 to move generallyaxially therewith. The piston cylinder 108 is closed at one end by theupper surface of the piston 120 and at the other end by the pistoncylinder cap 110 to define a piston chamber 122 therein.

An inlet valve 124 and an outlet valve 126 extend through the pistoncylinder cap 110 in communication with the piston chamber 122 to allowgas or liquid to flow therethrough. An inlet line 128 and an outlet line130 are connected to the inlet valve 124 and outlet valve 126,respectively, and are adapted to receive and exhaust, respectively, gasor liquid from the other ends. It will also be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art that the operation of both the inlet andoutlet valves could be performed by a single, multi-directional valve.

The base 102 may contain ballast for maintaining the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 in a fixed position relative to the environment. The base 102may also comprise a storage receptacle for the gas or liquid transferredtherein which is connected to the outlet line 130 for receiving the airor liquid from the piston chamber 122. If the base 102 is to be used asstorage, a base outlet 132 may be connected thereto to allow flow of gasor liquid to a desired location from the base 102. It is to beappreciated that the location of the base outlet 132 on the base 102 isadaptable such that the base outlet 132 may be placed anywhere on thebase 102.

The buoyancy cylinder 104, which may also be a buoyancy block housing,may be connected to the upper surface of the base 102 by chains 134 thatin turn are connected to the buoyancy cylinder 104. In this manner, thechains 134 stabilize the buoyancy cylinder 104 on the base 102. It is tobe appreciated that guy wires or other connection means may be used tocouple the buoyancy cylinder 104 to the base 102, and the presentinvention is not limited by the chains 134 as the connection means.

The buoyancy cylinder 104 may also have a plurality of regularly spacedopenings on its perimeter to allow liquid such as water to flow throughthe buoyancy cylinder 104 surrounding the buoyancy block 114. To reduceturbulence associated with such flow, a plurality of turbulence openings131 may be provided on the buoyancy cylinder 104. As such, the buoyancycylinder 104 may comprise a cage or the like to reduce frictionassociated with gas flowing through the buoyancy cylinder 104.

The buoyancy cylinder 104 has a predetermined length. The length of thebuoyancy cylinder 104 relates to movement of the buoyancy block 114within different liquid environments. For example, when the buoyancypump device 100 is placed in an ocean environment, the length of thebuoyancy cylinder 104 needs to be adjustable to allow the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 to perform with annual tide changes and wave heights. Whenthe buoyancy pump device 100 is placed in a lake environment forexample, the length of the buoyancy cylinder 104 would not requireadjustment to wave height operational settings.

In another example, in a body of water having a 10 ft. water depth abuoyancy cylinder must be at least 10 ft., and have an additional 7 ft.operational height added to the 10 ft. to allow movement of the buoyancyblock within the buoyancy chamber. Accordingly, the buoyancy cylinderwould be 17 ft. tall and has a 7 ft. usable stroke. But if the body ofwater has tide changes, this example changes slightly.

In the changed example, with the buoyancy pump device in a 10 ft. seawith a 2 ft. tide change results in a 2 ft. loss of usable stroke. Toaccount for this change, the difference between the annual low tide andhigh tide is added to the length of the buoyancy cylinder to bedeployed. That is, in an environment where maximum wave height is 7 ft.,low tide is 10 ft., and high tide is 14 ft., the difference between lowtide and high tide would be 4 ft. This is added to the buoyancy cylinderlength (7 ft. (for maximum wave height)+10 ft. (to allow the buoyancypump device to operate in low tide conditions)+4 ft. (difference betweenlow and high tides)) for a total buoyancy cylinder length of 21 ft. Thisallows a 7 ft. stroke on high tide days with complete use of the passingwaves.

The buoyancy cylinder cap 106 is adapted to support the piston cylinder108 thereon, and the opening 118 therein is adapted to prevent liquidflowing into the buoyancy chamber 112 from entering the piston cylinder108 therethrough. The buoyancy cylinder cap 106 may be connected to thebuoyancy cylinder 104 by welding or threads, or other suitableconnection means adapted to resist environmental forces while supportingthe loads created by the piston cylinder 108 and its structuralcomponents. Seals may be used in the opening 118 of the buoyancy cap 106to prevent liquids or gases from entering into the piston cylinder 108from the buoyancy chamber 112. The piston cylinder 108 is adapted toseal the inside of the piston cylinder 108 from the environment. Thepiston cylinder 108 is constructed of material designed to limit theeffects of the environment, including water in lakes, oceans, andrivers.

The buoyancy block 114 disposed within the buoyancy chamber 112 isgenerally cylindrical and has a tapered upper surface. The buoyancyblock 114 has a predetermined buoyancy, such that the buoyancy block 114moves in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water in whichthe buoyancy pump device 100 is positioned and the hydraulic orpneumatic system characteristics of the buoyancy pump device 100 itself.The buoyancy of the buoyancy block 114 may likewise be adjusteddepending on the characteristics and fluid dynamics of the water and thesystem. Such adjustment may occur by (1) manually or remotely adjustingthe buoyancy block 114 either axially or radially with respect to thebuoyancy chamber 112 or in both directions; and (2) adjusting othercharacteristics of the buoyancy block 114 affecting its behavior in thewater. An exemplary adjustment means is described in greater detailbelow.

The piston shaft 116 is coupled to the buoyancy block 114 and the piston120 via respective connection joints 136, 138. The connection joints136, 138 may be designed to be movable or flexible in response to anyradial motion of either the piston 120 or the buoyancy block 114 whenthe piston 120 and buoyancy block 114 are not axially aligned. Suchmovement or flexibility may be achieved through the use of aswivel-couple or other suitable coupling means.

The piston shaft 116 is designed to be lightweight and environmentallyresistive, such that the piston shaft 116 continues to function afterexposure to harsh environmental conditions. The piston shaft 116 isfurther designed to translate forces from the buoyancy block 114 to thepiston 120 and from the piston 120 to the buoyancy block 114. Finally,the piston shaft 116 may be telescopically adjustable (as represented bya line 117), such that the length of the piston shaft 116 may beincreased or decreased, depending on the requirements of the buoyancypump device 100. The adjustment of the piston shaft 116 may be neededwhen air is the pumping media, or the height of waves or swells are lessthan desirable. Such adjustment enables maximum utilization of thepotential energy in the waves or swells.

In order to seal the piston chamber 122, the piston 120 which isslideably positioned inside the piston cylinder 108 may include a sealtherebetween extending around the perimeter of the piston 120. The sealis adapted to prevent seepage of gas or liquid from the environment intothe piston chamber 122, or from the piston chamber 122 to theenvironment, while the piston 120 remains slidable within the pistonchamber 122.

The inlet and outlet valves 124, 126 are unidirectional flow deviceswhich permit the flow of gas or liquid into and out of the pistonchamber 122, respectively. It is to be appreciated that the valves 124,126 may be positioned at differing locations on the piston cylinder cap110, so long as a desired pressure is achievable within the pistonchamber 122.

Because movement of the buoyancy block 114 in the buoyancy cylinder 104may be hampered by friction or other elements entering the buoyancycylinder 104, a plurality of shims 140 may be connected to the innersurface of the buoyancy cylinder 104. The shims 140 axially extend alongthe perimeter of the buoyancy cylinder 104, and further serve tostabilize the orientation of the buoyancy block 114 within the buoyancycylinder. The shims 140 may be constructed of a suitable material, suchthat the coefficient of friction between the shims 140 and the buoyancyblock 114 approaches zero.

To limit axial movement of the buoyancy block 114 within the buoyancycylinder 104, a plurality of stops 142 may be provided on the innersurface of the buoyancy cylinder 104 and disposed at a lower portionthereof. The positioning of the stops 142 may be adjusted to match adesired stroke length of the piston 120 within the piston cylinder 108.

It is to be understood that axial movement of the buoyancy block 114 inthe buoyancy cylinder 104 translates to axial movement of the piston 120within the piston cylinder 108 via the piston shaft 116. The pistonshaft 116 and connection joints 136 further fix the position of thepiston 120 with respect to the buoyancy block 114.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, an exemplary buoyancy block 300 is shownin top plan, side and isometric views, respectively. The buoyancy block300 has an axial opening 302 adapted to receive the coupling joint 136(FIG. 2B) and thereby couple to the piston shaft 116 (FIG. 1). An upperportion 304 is tapered radially inward from the perimeter of thebuoyancy block 300, and terminates at the axial opening 302. The taperson the upper portion 304 assist axial movement of the buoyancy block300, especially when the buoyancy block 300 is submerged in water and ismoving towards the surface of the water. Although the upper portion 304is shown as separate from a lower portion 306 of the buoyancy block 300,it is to be appreciated that the tapers may begin from any portion ofthe buoyancy block 300 and terminate at the axial opening 302 tofacilitate axial movement of the buoyancy block 300 in water.

Referring now to FIG. 3D, a partial cross-section of an alternative,exemplary buoyancy block 350 is shown. The buoyancy block 350 has anupper portion 352 and a lower portion 354. The upper portion 352 has aradially tapered portion 356 to facilitate axial movement of thebuoyancy block 350 in water, and a non-tapered portion 358 connected tothe tapered portion 356. Formed on the inner perimeter of the upperportion 352 of the buoyancy block 350 are threads 360.

The lower portion 354 of the buoyancy block is generally cylindrical,and has a plurality of threads 362 formed on the external perimeter ofthe lower portion 354. The threads 362 of the lower portion 354 areadapted to mate with the threads 360 of the upper portion 352 and allowaxial movement of the lower portion 354 with respect to the upperportion 352.

Movement of the lower portion 354 with respect to the upper portion 352is accomplished through the use of a motor 364. The motor 364 isconnected to the lower portion 354 on an upper surface 365 of the lowerportion 354. A drive shaft 366 couples the motor 364 to the uppersurface 365 and rotates the lower portion 354 in a predetermineddirection, thereby telescoping the buoyancy block 350. The telescopingof the lower portion 354 increases or decreases the height of thebuoyancy block 350, thereby increasing or decreasing the buoyancy of thebuoyancy block 350. It is to be appreciated that the diameter of thebuoyancy block 350 is likewise adjustable using similar methods.

Referring now to FIGS. 3E and 3F in combination, a top view of anexemplary adjustable buoyancy block base 370 is shown. The adjustablebuoyancy block base 370 includes outer plates 372, inner plates 374connected to the outer plates 372, an axially disposed motor 376connected to a gear 378, and a plurality of expansion bars 380 connectedto the gear 378 and the outer plates 372. The circumference of thebuoyancy block base 370 is sealed by plastic, thermoplastic or othersealant material 382, such as, for example, rubber. The sealant material382 thus prevents environmental materials from entering into thebuoyancy block base 370.

The outer plates 372 connect to the inner plates 374 via rollers 384.The rollers 384 allow movement of the outer plates 372 with respect tothe inner plates 374. Guides for the rollers 384 may be positioned onrespective surfaces of the outer and inner plates 372, 374.

The motor 376 is axially positioned within the buoyancy block base 370and powered by a suitable power source. The motor 376 is connected tothe gear 378, such that upon actuation of the motor 376, the gear 378rotates in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

The gear 378 is connected to the expansion bars 380, such that rotationof the gear 378 in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction results inrespective expansion or contraction of the diameter of the buoyancyblock base 370 through the movement of the outer plates 372 with respectto the inner plates 374 via the rollers 384.

For example, FIG. 3E shows the buoyancy block base 370 in a contractedposition having a diameter delineated by D₁. When the motor 376 isactuated to rotate the gear 378 in a clockwise direction, the expansionbars 380 correspondingly rotate to thereby expand the diameter of thebuoyancy block base 380 as shown in FIG. 3F and delineated by D₂. Thethermoplastic material 382 likewise expands in relation to the expansionof the buoyancy block diameter. Accordingly, the buoyancy block base370, when used in a buoyancy pump device, may radially expand orcontract to increase or decrease the diameter of the associated buoyancyblock.

It is to be appreciated that, although shown in a generally cylindricalconfiguration, the buoyancy block base 370 may be in otherconfigurations depending on the design and requirements of the buoyancypump device.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C, the buoyancy pump device 100 isshown in various positions as a wave (W) passes through the buoyancychamber 112 (FIG. 1). The waves (W) passing through the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 have geometric characteristics including the following:

Wave height (W_(H)) is the vertical distance between the crest (C) orhigh point of the wave and the trough (T) or low point of the wave;

Wave length (W_(L)) is the distance between equivalent points, e.g.,crests or troughs, on the waves; and

Stillwater level (S_(WL)) is the surface of the water in the absence ofany waves, generally the midpoint of the wave height (W_(H)).

In FIG. 4A, the buoyancy block 114 is shown at its highest verticalposition supported by the crest (C₁) of the wave (W) as fluid is outputthrough the outlet valve 126. As the wave (W) travels through thebuoyancy chamber 112 by a distance of about one-half (½) the wave length(W_(L)) as shown in FIG. 4B, the buoyancy block 114 falls to its lowestvertical position within the trough (T) of the wave (W) as fluid isdrawn through the inlet valve 124. In FIG. 4C, the wave (W) has traveledthe full wave length (W_(L)) so that the buoyancy block 114 has returnedto the highest vertical position on the following crest (C₂) and fluidis again output through the outlet valve 126.

The piston stroke (P_(s)) of the buoyancy pump device 100 is defined asthe distance the piston 120 is moved by the buoyancy block 114 as thewave (W) travels one wave length (W_(L)) through the buoyancy chamber112, which cause the buoyancy block 114 to drop a distance (B_(D)) equalto the wave height from the crest (C₁) position in FIG. 4A to the trough(T) position in FIG. 4B, and then rise the same distance (B_(R)) fromthe trough (T) position in FIG. 4B to the crest (C₂) position in FIG.4C. Hence, the piston stroke (P_(S)) equals twice the wave height(W_(H)):P _(s) =B _(D) +B _(R)=2W _(H)

Thus, the piston 120 has a “half stroke” descending and a “half stroke”rising, also referred to as the “dropping stroke” and “lifting stroke”,respectively.

The wave has a given wave height W_(H) and period W_(P) as it passesthrough the buoyancy pump device 100. the buoyancy pump device 100 has apiston stroke P_(S), which is defined by the piston moving across onefull wave period W_(P). As can be seen in FIG. 4A, as a wave moves fromacross the buoyancy pump device 100, the buoyancy block moves in directassociation with the passing wave.

When the buoyancy pump device 100 is in a zero-pressure state, thebuoyancy block 114 is able to travel the maximum distance resulting fromthe wave motion, i.e., P_(smax)=2W_(L). This translates into a fullhalf-stroke travel of the piston 120 in the piston cylinder 108, whichforces fluid out of the piston chamber through the valve.

Referring back to FIG. 1 and in operation, after the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 has been placed initially in a body of water, such as anocean, lake, river, or other wave- or swell-producing environment, theinitial pressure in the outlet line 130, outlet valve 126 and pistonchamber 122 begins at a zero-pressure state. A wave, having recognizedproperties, arrives at the buoyancy pump device 100. Water from the waveincrementally fills the buoyancy chamber 112. As the water fills thebuoyancy chamber 112, the buoyancy block 114 begins to rise with therising water in the buoyancy chamber 112.

The buoyancy of the buoyancy block 114 is designed such that a majorityof the buoyancy block 114 rides relatively high out of the water withinthe buoyancy chamber 112, thereby allowing axial movement of thebuoyancy block 114 within the buoyancy chamber 112. As the wave departs,the buoyancy block 114 lowers with the settling water in the buoyancychamber 112 and by gravity. The piston shaft 116 translates the movementof the buoyancy block 114 to the piston 120.

At the other end of the spectrum, when the buoyancy pump device 100starts with maximum pressure in the outlet line 130 and outlet valve130, a majority of the buoyancy block 114 will be virtually submergedwithin the water in which the buoyancy pump device 100 is placed. Thisresults in a decreased stroke-length of the piston 120 through thepiston chamber 122.

Gravity powers the down stroke of the buoyancy block 114 and the piston120 as a given wave or swell passes. With the rise of a given wave orswell, the buoyancy of the buoyancy block 114 provides the lift/powerfor the piston 120 via the piston shaft 116. When piston 120 pressurefrom the outlet valve 126 is low, the buoyancy block 114 ridesrelatively high in the water within the buoyancy chamber, because thebuoyancy lift required is only relative to the back pressure deliveredinto the piston chamber 122 via the outlet valve 126.

When the piston pressure is high, the axial movement of the buoyancyblock 114 within the buoyancy chamber is limited, resulting in thebuoyancy block 114 riding lower in the water. In certain high pressurestates in the piston chamber 122, the buoyancy block 114 may be almostcompletely submerged and still axially move within the buoyancy chamberto pump the liquid or gas within the piston chamber 122. Eventually, thepressure from the outlet valve 126 may become so great that the buoyancyof the buoyancy block 114, even when completely submerged, can no longerprovide enough lifting force to move the piston 120. At this point, thebuoyancy block 114 and piston 120 cease movement even as the wave orswell continues to rise with respect to the buoyancy pump device 100.

For example, in a buoyancy pump device having a buoyancy block with aone foot height deployed in a maximum pressure situation, the buoyancypump device will lose about one foot of pump stroke within the pistoncylinder. Should a wave of only one foot be present, the buoyancy pumpdevice will not pump.

Should this point not be reached, the buoyancy block 114 and piston 120will continue to axially move with the rise of a given wave or swelluntil the wave or swell reaches its respective maximum height, allowingthe piston 120 to move the liquid or gas in the piston chamber 122through the outlet valve 126. This process is maintained until themaximum compression point in the piston chamber 122 is reached but stillallowing outward flow.

When the buoyancy block 114 is almost submerged or submerged yet stillaxially moving, this is termed the high waterline of the buoyancy pumpdevice 100. As the wave or swell passes, the lowest point of descent ofthe buoyancy block 114 is termed the low waterline of the buoyancy pumpdevice 100. The distance between the high waterline and low waterlinedetermines the power stroke of the piston 120.

For example, when gas is the media to be pumped, the inlet line 128,which may be adjusted to connect to a gas source, is placed in alocation that communicates with and receives gas from a gas environmentsuch as ambient air. The outlet line 130 may be connected to the base102 for storing the compressed gas. It is to be appreciated that theoutlet line 130 may be connected to another location for storing thegas, such as a fixed storage tank that is located external the buoyancypump device 100.

In the gas example, when the piston 120 lowers with a settling wave, itcreates a vacuum in the piston chamber 122, and draws gas through theinlet line 128 and the inlet valve 124 into the piston chamber 122. Atthe trough of the wave and after the water has evacuated the buoyancychamber 112, or when the buoyancy block 114 contacts the stops 142 whichinhibits further downward movement of the buoyancy block 114 and piston120, the maximum amount of gas fills the piston chamber 122.

As the wave begins to rise and water incrementally fills the buoyancychamber 112, the buoyancy block 114 is exposed to and contacted by thewater. The buoyancy of the buoyancy block 114 results in a natural liftof the buoyancy block 114 in response to the rising water within thebuoyancy chamber 112. Due to the fixed position of the buoyancy block114 with respect to the piston 120 as facilitated by the piston shaft116, the piston 120 rises in direct relation to the lifting of thebuoyancy block 114.

The gas that has been introduced into the piston chamber 122 compresseswithin the piston chamber 122 as the buoyancy block 114 rises, until thepressure of the compressed gas overcomes the line pressure in the outletline 130. At this point, the gas flows through the outlet valve 126 andthe outlet line 130 and is transported to a desired location for use orstorage, for example the exemplary base 102 describe above or otherstorage location. It is further conceivable that the gas may bedispelled into the atmosphere should the situation require.

Upon the wave reaching its maximum height as it passes through thebuoyancy pump device 100, water begins to exit the buoyancy chamber 112.Gravity urges the buoyancy block 114 downward with the wave, resultingin a downward movement of the piston 120, which creates a vacuum in thepiston chamber 122. The vacuum again draws gas into the piston chamber122 as described previously, thereby repeating the process with eachsuccessive wave, thereby driving the buoyancy pump device 100 tosuccessively and cyclically draw gas into the piston chamber 122,compress gas within the piston chamber 122, and force gas from thepiston chamber 122 into the base 102. The piston 120 further compressesthe gas stored in the base 102 with each cycle until the buoyancy block114 can no longer overcome the pressure of the stored gas and in theoutlet line 130. At this point, the buoyancy block 114 no longer riseswith respect to the waves.

In another example, when a liquid is the media to be pumped, the inletline 128 is connected to a liquid environment such as water. The outletline 130 may be connected to a storage reservoir, including but notlimited to a lake bed, water tower, or other water system. Whenincompressible liquids such as water are being pumped, the piston shaft116 may not require adjustment because the buoyancy pump device 100 willpump once the piston chamber 122 is completely filled with theincompressible liquid.

In the liquid example, the lowering of the piston 120 correspondinglycreates a vacuum in the piston chamber 122, which draws water throughthe inlet line 128 and inlet valve 124 and into the piston chamber 122.At the trough of the wave and when water evacuates the buoyancy chamber112, or when the buoyancy block 114 contacts the stops 142 that inhibitfurther downward movement of the buoyancy block 114, the maximum amountof liquid fills the piston chamber 122.

As the wave begins to rise and water incrementally fills the buoyancychamber 112, the buoyancy block 114 is exposed to and contacted by thewater. The buoyancy of the buoyancy block 114 results in a natural liftof the buoyancy block 114 in response to the incrementally rising waterwithin the buoyancy chamber 112. Due to the fixed nature of the buoyancyblock 114 with respect to the piston 120 as facilitated by the pistonshaft 116, the piston 120 incrementally rises in direct relation to thelifting of the buoyancy block 114. In the case of water as the media,the rising incompressible water within the piston chamber 122 overcomesthe line pressure in the outlet line 130. At this point, the water flowsthrough the outlet valve 126 and the outlet line 130, and is transportedto a desired location for use or storage. It is conceivable that theliquid and/or gas may be dispelled into the atmosphere should thesituation require.

Upon the wave reaching its maximum height as it passes through thebuoyancy pump device 100, and departs, water begins to incrementallyexit the buoyancy chamber 112. Gravity urges the buoyancy block 114downward, resulting in a downward movement of the piston 120 and avacuum in the piston chamber 122. The vacuum serves to draw liquidand/or gas into the piston chamber 122. The process is repeated witheach successive wave, thereby driving the buoyancy pump device 100 tosuccessively and cyclically draw liquid and/or water into the pistonchamber 122, and pump the liquid and/or water from the piston chamber122.

It is to be appreciated in the liquid example that a loss of buoyancylift must be factored due to the weight of the water/liquid presentwithin the piston chamber 122. However, in the gas example, because ofthe relatively lightweight properties of the gas vs. the liquid, thisloss is virtually non-existent. The loss in the liquid example may beovercome through the adjustable properties of the buoyancy block 114.

The operation of the buoyancy pump device 100 depends on the environmentwhere it is to be used. For example, when the buoyancy pump device 100is situated in an ocean having predetermined annualized wave averages,the buoyancy pump device 100 must be coupled to a structure relative tothe waves, or positioned with ballast such that the buoyancy pump devicemaintains its relative position to the waves. Such structures could befixed or substantially fixed, or could include a seaworthy vessel, aplatform-type arrangement, or direct coupling of the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 to the ocean floor. Such connections are common, especiallywithin the oil and gas industry, and are contemplated to be used inconjunction with the novel buoyancy pump device 100 according to theprinciples of the present invention.

The buoyancy lift for driving the piston within the piston cylinder viathe piston shaft is directly related to the buoyancy block's liftcapability. Theoretically, for example, given a total displacement ofthe buoyancy block at 100 lbs., subtracting the buoyancy block weight(10 lbs.), piston shaft, connectors, other miscellaneous parts (5 lbs.),and the piston weight (2.5 lbs.) from the total displacement (100 lbs.)leaves a lift capability of 82.5 lbs. Empirical testing of the buoyancypump device 100 operates about 96% efficient to this formula.

It is contemplated that the buoyancy pump device 100 may be used toself-calibrate its position with respect to the ocean floor and therebymaintain a generally stable position relative to the wave environment inwhich it is placed. For example, ballast tanks may be coupled to thebuoyancy pump device 100 and filled with appropriate ballast. Thebuoyancy pump device 100 may pump gas or liquid into the ballast tanksand thereby adjust the position of the buoyancy pump device 100 relativeto the wave environment. Such a configuration may be accomplished bycoupling the outlet line 130 of the buoyancy pump device 100 to theballast tank and providing a control system to adjust flow into and outof the ballast tank upon a predetermined condition. Both gas and liquidmay be used depending on the desired location adjustment of the buoyancypump device 100.

It is also contemplated that the length and width (diameter) of thepiston 120 may be adjusted to correspond to the pumping media or theproperties of the piston 120, the buoyancy chamber 112, and the buoyancyblock 114. Likewise, the piston 120 may have a telescopic adjustment orthe like thereon for adjusting the height or width of the piston 120similar to the buoyancy block 300 (See FIGS. 3A-3C).

For example, flow rates and pressure settings within the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 are related to the inside diameter and height of the pistoncylinder 108. The larger the piston cylinder 108 and the longer thepiston stroke within the piston cylinder 108, the greater amount ofliquid or gas flow is accomplished with the least pressure present. Thesmaller the piston cylinder 108 and the shorter the piston stroke withinthe piston cylinder 108, the greatest pressure is present to the liquidor gas flow and the least amount of liquid or gas flow is accomplished.

It is recognized that friction losses may occur, even though modest, asrelated to the lengths and dimensions of the inlet line 128 and outletline 130 and other materials including the inlet and outlet valves 124,126.

The size of the buoyancy chamber 112 and buoyancy block 114 may also beadjusted to provide for maximum buoyancy pump device efficiency. Suchadjustments may be made, for example, manually, by interchanging parts,automatically, by including telescoping portions on the respectivecomponent, or remotely, by configuring a control system to adjust theproperties of the desired component. In this manner, the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 may be calibrated to function on waves having varyingproperties, such that the buoyancy pump device 100 may take advantage oflarge waves, small waves, and waves having more moderate properties.

To take advantage of these waves, the buoyancy pump device 100 does notnecessarily have to be secured to the base 102. Rather, the buoyancypump device may be, for example, mounted to the floor of the body ofwater, secured to a structure mounted on the floor of the body of water,secured to a rigid floating platform, secured to a sea wall, or othermounting locations that provide a stable platform or its equivalent.

The size of the buoyancy pump device 100 and the function of thebuoyancy pump device 100 related to the amount of energy in the wave orswell may be determined by several factors. For example, these include:the annual high, low and average wave size; the annual high, low andaverage tide marks; the average period of the wave or swell; the depthof liquid at the location of the wave or swell; the distance from shoreto the wave or swell; the geography of the near vicinity of the wave orswell location; and the structure of the buoyancy pump device 100. It iscontemplated that the buoyancy pump device 100 may be used incombination with other buoyancy pump devices in a grid fashion to pumplarger volumes of gas or liquid through the pumps.

To determine the horsepower generated from a given wave height andvelocity, the wave horsepower (potential energy) and the buoyancy blockhorsepower in falling and lifting configurations were calculated. Fromthis data, the piston pumping horsepower was then calculated for bothwater and air pumping configurations. These calculations are describedbelow according to an exemplary testing configuration.

Wave Horsepower

Referring more specifically to FIGS. 4A-4D, wave horsepower (Wave HP) isdetermined for a wave (W) traveling over a distance of one-half the wavelength (½ W_(L)) as follows:Wave HP=[(W _(v))(D)/(HP)](W _(S))whereW _(V)(Wave Volume)=(W _(W))(W _(D))(W _(H))(gallons water/ft³)W _(w)=Wave Width (½ W _(L))=17.5 feetW _(D)=Wave Depth=17.5 feetW _(H)=Wave Height=5 feetandD=density of water (8.33 lbs/gal)andHP=horse power unit (550)andW _(S)=Wave Speed (½ W _(L) /W _(T))andW _(T)=Wave time to travel ½ W _(L) (7.953 sec).

For example, the wave depth (W_(D)) is assumed to be equal to the wavewidth (W_(W)) so that the profile of the wave (W) will completely coverthe buoyancy block 114′ which is cylindrical in shape. For the numbersindicated above which are exemplary, the calculations are as follows:Wave HP=[(11,453 gal)(8.33 lbs/gal)/(550)](2.2 ft/sec)=382whereW _(V)=(1,531 ft³)(7.481 gal/ft³)=11,453 gal; andW _(S)=(17.5 feet)/(7.953 sec) 2.2 ft/sec.

Buoyancy Block Dropping HP

As the wave (W) travels through the buoyancy chamber 104 during thedropping stroke (FIGS. 4A and 4B), the buoyancy block 104 drops withgravity into the trough (T). The buoyancy block horsepower generatedduring the dropping stroke (BB_(D)) can be determined from the followingequation:BB _(D)=[(BB _(V))(D)(WR)/HP](DS _(S))(TR _(D))whereBB _(V)(Buoyancy Block Volume)=(VB+VC)(7.48 gal/ft³)VB=Volume of Base 114′a=Πr ₁ ² h ₁VC=Volume of Cone 114′b=Π/2(r ₁ +r ₂)² h ₂andD=density of water (8.33 lbs/gal)such that,(BB _(V))(D)=the displacement weight of the buoyancy block 114′andWR=Weight ratio of water to the buoyancy block 114′ material andHP=horsepower unit (550)andDS _(S)=Dropping Stroke Speed=B _(D) /T _(D)B _(D)=distance of stroke travel when droppingT _(D)=time to travel distance B _(D)andTR_(D) = Time  Ratio, i.e., percentage  of  time  buoyancy  block  drops  during  a  wave  period = 50%  assuming  symmetrical  long  waves.

Continuing with the exemplary data set forth above for the Wave HPcalculations, the calculations for BB_(D) are as follows:BB_(D) = [4,186  gal)(8.333  gal/ft³)(0.10)/550](0.25  ft/sec )(0.5)   = 0.79(HP  available  from  Dropping  Stroke  of  Buoyancy  Block)  whereBB_(V) = [Π(17.5)²(1.5) + (π/2)(17.5 + 1.75)²(2)](7.48  gal/ft³)   = (361  ft³ + 199  ft³)(7.48  gal/ft³)   = (560  ft³)(7.48  gal/ft³) = 4,186  gal andDS _(S)=(1.00 ft)/(3.976 sec)=0.25 ft/secand(BB _(V))(D)=34,874 lbs (total displacement) and(BB _(V))(D)(WS)=3,487(usable weight)

Buoyancy Block Lifting Horsepower

As the wave (W) continues traveling through the buoyancy chamber 104during the lift stroke (FIGS. 4B and 4C), the buoyancy block 104 riseswith the wave until it peaks at the crest (C₂). The buoyancy blocklifting horsepower generated during the lift stroke (BB_(L)) can bedetermined from the following equation:BB _(L)=[(BB _(V))(D)(1−WR)/HP](LS _(S))(TR _(R))whereLS _(S)=Lifting Stroke Speed=B _(R) /T _(R)B _(R)=distance of stroke travel when rising=1 ft.T _(R)=time to travel distance B _(R)=4.0 secandTR_(R) = Time  Ratio, i.e., percentage  of  time  buoyancy  block  rises  during  a  wave  period = 50%  assuming  symmetrical  long  waves. (BB _(V))(D)(1−WR)=Usable weight during lifting stroke (UW _(L))=31,382lbssuch thatBB _(L)=[(31,382 lbs)/550](1 ft/4.0 sec)(0.5)=7.13 HP

Total Input Horsepower

Accordingly, the total amount of input horsepower withdrawn from thewave by the buoyancy block (BB_(T)) is as follows:BB _(T) =BB _(D) +BB _(L)Using the above-exemplary numbers set forth above, the total input powerfor the buoyancy block 114′ is as follows:BB _(T)=0.79+7.13=7.92 HP.

Piston Pumping Power (CFM/PSI)

The piston pumps water at a given rate in cubic feet per minute (CFM)and a given pressure in lbs. per square inch (PSI) for each half (½)stroke when the buoyancy pump device is configured to pump wateraccording to the following formulae:BF=Piston Water flow=(S _(v))(SPM)(BP _(eff))whereS _(v)=Volume per ½ stroke=(Π)(piston radius)²(stroke length)=3.464andSPM=Strokes per minute=7.545andBP _(eff)=Empirical Tested Efficiency of Exemplary Buoyancy PumpDevice=83%.

For the exemplary numbers indicated above, the water flow from the pumpis 21.7 CFM.

The determination of the piston water pressure (PSI) for each half (½)stroke in the buoyancy pump device (BP) is made by the followingequation:BP={UW _(L)−[(S _(V))(D)(gallons water/ft³)]}/SA _(P)whereUW _(L)=usable weight during a lift stroke=31,386 lbsS _(V)=Volume per ½ stroke=(Π)(piston radius)²(stroke length)=3.46 ft³D=density of water (8.33 lbs/gal)andSA _(P)=Surface Area of the Piston (in²)=498.76.Accordingly, for the above-exemplary numbers, the PSI/stroke for theexemplary buoyancy pump device is(31,386 lbs.−215.84 lbs)/498.76 in²=62.50 PSI/Stroke.Usable Generator Produced HP

When the exemplary buoyancy pump device in a water-pumping configurationis connected to an exemplary water storage tank for use in powering anexemplary water turbine, the following empirical formula is used tomeasure power produced by the buoyancy pump device:HP={(BP)(BP _(eff))(Head)−[(Loss)(Head)(Pipe Ft./Section)]}(BF)(T_(eff))(KW)(HP)whereBP _(eff)=Empirically tested buoyancy pump efficiency=88%Head=PSI to Head(ft) conversion factor=2.310

Loss=Pipe loss efficiency factor=0.068Pipe  Ft./Section = One  pipe  has  a  length  of  100  ft., and  10  pipes = 1  section  of  pipe such that1 mile of pipe=5.280 sections of pipeT _(eff)=Turbine efficiency based on existing water turbine=90%KW=Conversion factor for ft/sec to KW=11.8HP=Conversion factor for Watts to HP=746Accordingly, using the above-exemplary numbers in combination with theprior calculations, the output HP for an exemplary power systemutilizing the buoyancy pump device is as follows:HP={[(62.5)(0.88)(2.310)]−[(0.068)(2.310)(10)(5.280)]}(21.689/60)(0.9/11.8)(1000/746)=4.389.Input HP v. Output HP Efficiency

Accordingly, the conversion efficiency of input HP to output HP isdeterminable according to the following:Conversion Efficiency=HP/BB _(T)=4.389/7.972=(0.5505)(100)=55.05%.Thus, using empirical and theoretical data, it is appreciated that theexemplary buoyancy pump device according to the principles of thepresent invention, when used in conjunction with an exemplary waterturbine, has about a 55% conversion efficiency of the HP withdrawn froma passing wave to output HP, which may then be used as a source ofpower.

The above-exemplary calculations were made with an exemplary buoyancyblock 114′ having a fixed diameter (di) or width depending on thegeometry of the buoyancy block 114′-and height (h₁+h₂). It is to beappreciated that the wave height (W_(H)) will vary for differentlocations and for different times during the year at each location.Thus, it is desirable to reconfigure or adjust this buoyancy block basedon the varying wave characteristics. To ensure high efficiencies, theheight and/or diameter of the buoyancy block 114′ can be adjusted. Forexample, the buoyancy block 114′ can be designed or adjusted to increasethe height of its base 104′a (h1) and related diameter to accommodatewaves having a greater wave height (W_(H)) as will be described below.

If a given wave (W) has the same wave period (W_(P)) as above and a waveheight increased to 9 ft. from 5 ft., with all remaining wave propertiesas described above, the buoyancy block height is adjusted, for example,by 1.5 ft. to increase the buoyancy pump device performance in thelarger W_(H). Adjustment to the buoyancy block as described herein willbe referred to as ‘warp’. Assuming also that the stroke speeds are thesame (DS_(S)=LS_(S)) and referred to as the same value (S_(S)), thefollowing calculations apply:Wave HP=[(W _(V))(D)/(HP)](W _(S))=687.35andS _(S)=0.880 ft/sBB _(D)={[(BB _(v1))(7.481 gal/ft³)(8.33lbs/gal)(0.10)]/550}(0.880)(0.5)=2.789 HPwhereBB _(v1)=559.630 ft³andBB _(L)=[(BB _(v2))(7.481 gal/ft³)(8.33lbs/gal)](0.9)(0.88)(0.5)/550=41.297 HPwhere BB _(v2)=920.423 ft³S _(v)=12.122 ft³andBF=75.912BP=106.494HP=26.93 HPsuch thatConversion Efficiency [(26.93)/(2.789+41.297)](100)=61.08%

The number used for buoyancy block volume in the dropping configuration(BB_(V1)) is the same number used in the earlier non-warped buoyancyblock example. This is because the weight for the warped buoyancy blockremains constant. However, the buoyancy block volume in the liftingconfiguration (BB_(v2)) increases due to the increased area of thebuoyancy block as a result of the warp. Accordingly, it can be seen thatincreasing the buoyancy pump height by 1.5 ft. results in a largeramount of horsepower in the lifting and dropping of the buoyancy block,and a larger amount of output horsepower in the exemplary turbine systemwith improved overall efficiency.

TABLE 1 BUOYANCY BLOCK HP Buoyancy (BB_(T)) WAVE HEIGHT (W_(H)) BlockLow Wave High Wave Low High Diameter (in) (3 mph) (8 mph) 3 12.6 126 0.926.9 4 16.8 168 2.21 64.76 5 21 210 4.39 126.94 6 25.2 252 7.67 219.88 729.4 294 12.28 349.77 8 33.6 336 18.45 522.78 9 37.8 378 26.39 745.09 1042 420 36.33 1022.9

Data for TABLE 1, which shows the amount of horsepower produced by abuoyancy pump device according to the present invention, was generatedbased on a wave having the indicated wave height and moving at 3 milesper hour for the low wave height, and 8 miles per hour for the high waveheight. The diameter or width of the buoyancy block was adjusted toperform in larger wave environments as indicated and described above.The equations set forth above were used to calculate the horsepower forthe low and high wave settings.

Because waves or swells are the source of potential energy for thebuoyancy pump device, it is to be appreciated that the lack of waves orswells results in no production by the buoyancy pump device.Accordingly, no data was obtainable in this condition.

The larger and faster the wave, swell or current, the greater thepotential energy available for extraction through the buoyancy pumpdevice. Likewise, the larger the buoyancy block, either in height ordiameter, the greater the potential energy available for extraction fromthe water. The smaller and slower the wave, swell or current, thesmaller the potential energy available for extraction from the waterthrough the buoyancy pump device. Similarly, the smaller the buoyancyblock, the smaller potential energy available for extraction from thewater.

To achieve the greatest amount of potential energy available from thebuoyancy pump device 100, the dimensions of the buoyancy block 114 must,in a fully submerged state, not exceed the width or height of the waveor swell arc or height, thereby allowing the virtually submergedbuoyancy block 114 to axially move at least a small amount.

In Table 1, the buoyancy of the buoyancy block in the buoyancy pumpdevice was varied by adjusting the width or diameter of the buoyancyblock in the amount indicated to maximize the efficiency of the buoyancypump device with respect to the varying wave heights.

To determine operational days for the buoyancy pump device usingempirical ocean wave data, several sources are available. For example,relevant wave data over a given period of time is determinable fromhttp://www.ndbc.noaa.gov. The following table rates wave data forJanuary 2001 and February 2001 taken from HARBOR, Wash.

TABLE 2 Annualized Wave Averages Grays Harbor, WA Buoy (125.99 feet)January 2001 February 2001 Wave Height Period Wave Height Period Day(ft.) (sec) Day (ft.) (sec) 1 8.20 11.020 1 8.00 11.500 2 9.20 11.020 216.20 11.500 3 7.10 11.020 3 16.50 11.500 4 10.20 11.020 4 7.50 11.500 59.80 11.020 5 11.80 11.500 6 13.60 11.020 6 6.40 11.500 7 6.30 11.020 77.80 11.500 8 7.00 11.020 8 5.50 11.500 9 10.30 11.020 9 9.40 11.500 1016.50 11.020 10 9.40 11.500 11 9.10 11.020 11 6.90 11.500 12 10.6011.020 12 6.60 11.500 13 6.50 11.020 13 5.20 11.500 14 12.10 11.020 144.10 11.500 15 8.80 11.020 15 5.60 11.500 16 5.30 11.020 16 5.70 11.50017 8.40 11.020 17 5.00 11.500 18 9.30 11.020 18 7.20 11.500 19 14.4011.020 19 5.60 11.500 20 9.70 11.020 20 6.80 11.500 21 17.20 11.020 216.60 11.500 22 7.10 11.020 22 6.80 11.500 23 8.40 11.020 23 6.50 11.50024 9.00 11.020 24 5.60 11.500 25 9.10 11.020 25 4.90 11.500 26 10.5011.020 26 6.70 11.500 27 9.80 11.020 27 5.60 11.500 28 5.00 11.020 286.70 11.500 29 19.00 11.020 30 9.40 11.020 31 9.60 11.020 AVG. 9.8911.020 AVG. 7.38 11.500 31 Total Days in Operation 26 Total Days inOperation 9.89 Operational Day Wave 7.60 Operational Day Wave HeightAverage (ft.) Height Average (ft.) 8.75 Operational Year Wave 57Operational Year Wave Height Average (ft.) Height Average (ft.)

In Table 2, the wave heights were measured for each respective day ofthe month to achieve a daily average. Wave period was averaged for theentire month and the same wave period was used for each day of themonth. For January 2001, there were 31 total operation days, given anexemplary buoyancy pump device having a minimum wave height operationalrequirement of 5 ft. For February 2001, because day 14 and day 25 hadwave heights less than 5 ft., there were only 26 operation days for theexemplary buoyancy pump device. The average of the wave heights on theoperational days for January and February were thus determined to be9.89 ft. and 7.60 ft., respectively. The annualized operational waveheight for January and February 2001, would be averaged at 8.75 ft. andhave 56 days of operation.

For example, for calendar year 2001 at the Point Reyes, Calif. buoy, thenumber of operational days would be 331 with an average wave height of9.01 ft. A user of a buoyancy pump device disclosed herein would thus beable to obtain the publicly available data and determine effectiveannualized wave-heights and operation days for a given buoyancy pumpdevice configuration.

The components of the buoyancy pump device 100 must be adapted tofunction in a saline environment, such as an ocean. Accordingly, thecomponents of the buoyancy pump device 100 must have anti-oxidationproperties and/or otherwise be corrosive-resistant. To provide forminimal environmental impact, the inlet 126 of the piston chamber 122which may be exposed to the surrounding environment may have a filterplaced thereon to filter out undesired components. In the case ofseaweed or other decaying material such as algae entering into thebuoyancy chamber 112 or the buoyancy cylinder 104, the seaweed will actas a natural lubricant between the moving components of the buoyancypump device 100.

For example, if algae were to become lodged between the shims 140 andthe buoyancy block 114, the algae would reduce the friction between theshims 140 and the buoyancy block 114, thereby increasing the buoyancypump device efficiency.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an elevated side plan view of an alternateembodiment of a buoyancy pump device 500 is shown in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention. The buoyancy pump device 500includes a base 502, a buoyancy cylinder 504 connected at one end to thebase 502 and enclosed at the other end by a buoyancy cylinder cap 506and aligned generally coaxially with the buoyancy cylinder 504. Theother end of the buoyancy cylinder 504 is open and exposed to theenvironment. The buoyancy cylinder 504 and buoyancy cylinder cap 506collectively define a buoyancy chamber 508 therein.

A buoyancy block 510 generally cylindrical in shape is slidablypositioned with the buoyancy chamber 508 to move axially therein. It isto be appreciated that the buoyancy pump device 500 in this embodimenteliminates the need for a piston and piston shaft by combining thebuoyancy block of FIG. 1 and the buoyancy block and piston of FIG. 1into one equivalent buoyancy block 510.

An inlet valve 512 and an outlet valve 514 extend through the buoyancycylinder cap 506 in communication with the buoyancy chamber 508 to allowgas or liquid to flow therethrough. An inlet line 516 and an outlet line518 are connected to the inlet valve 512 and outlet 514, respectively,and are adapted to receive and exhaust, respectively, gas or liquid fromthe other ends.

The base 502 may have a plurality of legs 520 extending towards a floor522 of the body of water 524. A support base 526 is coupled through thelegs 520 to secure the buoyancy pump device 500 on the floor 522. Thebase 502 connects to ballast tanks 528 for maintaining the buoyancy pumpdevice 500 in a fixed position relative to the environment.

Positioned axially above the buoyancy cylinder cap 506 is a ballast cap530 which further serves to stabilize the buoyancy pump device 500. Theballast cap 530 is adapted to allow the valves 512, 514 and lines 516,518 to communicate therethrough. Instead of a storage tank, the outletline 518 may be connected to a flow line 532 to move gas or liquidsflowing through the flow line to a desired location (not shown).

The buoyancy block 510 disposed within the buoyancy chamber 508 has apredetermined buoyancy, such that the buoyancy block 510 moves in acycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water in which thebuoyancy pump device 500 is positioned and the hydraulic or pneumaticsystem characteristics of the buoyancy pump device 500 itself. Thebuoyancy of the buoyancy block 510 may be adjusted in a manner asdescribed above. Stops 534 are disposed on an inner perimeter at a lowerend of the buoyancy cylinder 504 to prevent the buoyancy block 510 fromwithdrawing outside of the buoyancy cylinder 504. The buoyancy block 510has a seal formed about the perimeter of the buoyancy block 510 toprevent communication between the buoyancy chamber 508 and the water524.

The inlet and outlet valves 512, 514 are unidirectional flow deviceswhich permit the flow of gas or liquid into and out of the buoyancychamber 508, respectively. It is to be appreciated that the valves 512,514 may be positioned at differing locations, so long as a desiredpressure is achievable within the buoyancy chamber 508.

In operation, as waves pass the buoyancy pump device 500, water contactsthe buoyancy block 510 through the opening in the buoyancy cylinder 504to raise the buoyancy block 510 in a cycle conforming to the fluiddynamics of the water and the hydraulic or pneumatic systemcharacteristics of the buoyancy pump device 500. Gas or liquid in thebuoyancy chamber 508 is expelled or exhausted through the outlet valve514 and outlet line 518 into the flow line 532. As the wave departs thebuoyancy pump device 500, the buoyancy block 510 incrementally descendsas urged by gravity, creating a vacuum within the buoyancy chamber 508.Accordingly, gas or liquid is entered in through the inlet line 516 andinlet valve 512 into the buoyancy chamber 508.

As the next successive wave approaches, gas or liquid that has beendrawn into the buoyancy chamber 508 is again expelled through the outletvalve 512, outline line 518 and flow line 532 in relation to theposition of the buoyancy block as it rises with respect to the wave.

Referring now to FIG. 6, an elevated side view of yet another embodimentof a buoyancy pump device 600 is shown. The buoyancy pump device 600includes a base 602, a buoyancy housing 604 connected to the base 602, abuoyancy housing cap 606 coupled to the buoyancy housing 604, and abuoyancy housing base 608 coupled to the other end of the buoyancyhousing 604.

Axially descending from the buoyancy housing cap 606 and connectedthereto is a piston shaft 610 and a plurality of piston supports 612.Connected to the other end of the piston shaft 610 and piston supports612 is a piston 614. Between the piston 614 and the buoyancy housingbase 608 is positioned a buoyancy block 616 having buoyancy block walls618 extending towards the buoyancy housing cap 606. The buoyancy block616, buoyancy block walls 618, and piston 614 form a piston chamber 620therein. The buoyancy block walls 618 are adapted to slidably movebetween the piston 614 and the buoyancy housing 604.

The base 602 has a plurality of legs 622 descending towards a floor 624of the body of water 626. Base supports 628 are connected to the legs622 and positioned on the floor 624 of the water 626. The base supports628 may be filled with a suitable ballast to maintain the position ofthe buoyancy pump device 600 in a position relative to the water 626.

The buoyancy housing 604 comprises four vertically extending posts 630coupled to and positioned between the buoyancy housing cap 606 and thebuoyancy housing base 608. A plurality of stops 632 are positioned onrespective upper and lower portions of the posts 630 to maintain thebuoyancy block 616 within the buoyancy housing 604 and limit axialmovement thereof. At the top of the buoyancy housing 604 a ballast cap634 is connected thereto to assist in maintaining the buoyancy pumpdevice 600 in a fixed position relative to the water 626. The buoyancyhousing base 608 connects on one surface to an outlet valve 636 and atthe other surface to an outlet line 638. The buoyancy housing base 608provides for communication between the outlet valve 636 and the outletline 638. The outlet line 638 is telescoping in nature, and slidablyreceived through the buoyancy housing base 608 such that should thebuoyancy block 616 move in relation to the buoyancy housing base 608,constant communication is maintained between the outlet valve 636 andthe outlet line 638. The piston shaft 610 and the piston supports 612are fixed relative to the buoyancy housing cap 606 and the piston 614 tomaintain a fixed position of the piston 614 with respect to the buoyancyhousing cap 606.

The piston 614 connects to an inlet valve 640 to allow communication ofthe inlet valve 640 with the piston chamber 620. The inlet valve 640 inturn is connected to an inlet line 642 to allow communication with thepiston chamber 620 and the desired supply source.

The buoyancy block 616 and buoyancy block walls 618 are slidable withrespect to the buoyancy housing 604 and buoyancy housing posts 630, suchthat the buoyancy block 616 and buoyancy block walls 618 may moveaxially within the buoyancy housing 604. The interface between thepiston 614 and the buoyancy walls 618 is preferably sealed such that thepiston chamber 620 may be under a fixed pressure with respect to axiallymovement of the buoyancy block 616 with respect to the piston 614,thereby maintaining a pressure therein.

The inlet and outlet valves 640, 636 are unidirectional flow deviceswhich permit the flow of gas or liquid into and out of the pistonchamber 620, respectively. It is to be appreciated that the valves 640,636 may be positioned at differing locations on the buoyancy housing cap606, so long as a desired pressure is achievable within the pistonchamber 620.

In operation, as a wave having predetermined characteristics approachesand contacts the buoyancy block 616 and buoyancy block walls 618, thebuoyancy block 616 and buoyancy block walls 618 move axially upwardrelative to the cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water inwhich the buoyancy pump device 600 is positioned and the hydraulic orpneumatic system characteristics of the buoyancy pump device 600 itself.The buoyancy of the buoyancy block 616 may be adjusted in a mannerdescribed above.

The buoyancy block 616 pressurizes the gas or liquid in the pistonchamber 620, such that the gas or liquid within the piston chamber 620is expelled through the outlet valve 636 and outlet line 638 to betransported to a desired location through a flow line 644 coupled to theoutlet line 638. As the wave departs the buoyancy pump device 600,gravity urges the buoyancy block 616 and buoyancy block walls 618downward, thereby creating a vacuum within the piston chamber 620. Gasor liquid is then drawn through the inlet line 642 and inlet valve 640into the piston chamber 620 until the buoyancy block either contacts thestops or reaches the trough of the wave. As the next wave cyclicallyapproaches the buoyancy pump device 600, the process is then repeated.

Referring now to FIG. 7, an elevated side view of yet another embodimentof a buoyancy pump device 700 is shown. The buoyancy pump device 700includes a base 702, a buoyancy housing 704, a buoyancy housing cap 705connected to the buoyancy housing, a piston housing 706 connected to thebuoyancy housing cap 705, a buoyancy housing base 708 connected to theother end of the buoyancy housing 704, the piston housing cap 710connected to the piston housing 706, and a ballast cap 712 positionedabove the piston housing cap 710 and coupled thereto.

A buoyancy block 714 is axially disposed within the buoyancy housing704. A piston shaft 716 connects to the upper surface of the buoyancyblock 714 at one end and to a piston 718 axially disposed within thepiston housing 706 at the other end. A piston chamber 719 is formedbetween the upper surface of the piston 718, the lower surface of thepiston housing cap 710 and the piston housing 706.

An inlet valve 720 and an outlet valve 722 are connected to the pistonchamber 719 through the piston housing cap 710. The inlet valve 720 andoutlet valve 722 extend through the ballast cap 712 and connect to aninlet line 724 and an outlet line 726, respectively.

The base 702 has a plurality of support legs 728 which extend toward asupport base 730. The support base 730 preferably seats on a floor 732of the body of water 734.

The buoyancy housing 704 has a plurality of buoyancy housing legs 736extending towards the buoyancy housing base 708 and connected thereto.The buoyancy housing legs 736 allow water 734 to pass therethrough. Aplurality of buoyancy block stops 738 are disposed at upper and lowerlocations on an inner surface of the buoyancy housing legs 736 to limitaxial movement of the buoyancy block 714 within the buoyancy housing704.

The buoyancy housing base 708 has a ballast tank 740 positioned thereonto maintain the position of the buoyancy pump device 700 relative to thebody of water 734. The buoyancy housing base 708 is further connected toa flow line 742 and allows the flow line 742 to flow through thebuoyancy housing base 708.

The piston housing 706 has a plurality of piston stops 744 disposed at alower end of and inside of the piston housing 706 to limit axialmovement of the piston 718 in the piston housing 706. The piston housing706 is further adapted to allow slidable axial movement of the piston718 within the piston housing 706.

The ballast cap 712 may be used to further stabilize the buoyancy pumpdevice 700 with respect to the body of water 734 by having apredetermined ballast or a variable ballast within the ballast cap 712.

The buoyancy block 714, which may be adjustable in the manner describedabove, is adapted to slidably axially move within the buoyancy housing704 as limited by a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water734 in which the buoyancy pump device 700 is positioned and thehydraulic or pneumatic system characteristics of the buoyancy pumpdevice 700 itself.

The piston shaft 716 is preferably rigid and maintains a fixedrelationship between the piston 718 and the buoyancy block 714. Thepiston 718 is exposed to water on the lower end due to the opened end ofthe piston housing 706 disposed towards the buoyancy block 714. Thepiston 718 preferably has a seal (not shown) disposed about theperimeter of the piston 718 which prevents leaking or seepage from thepiston chamber 719 into the area beneath the piston. In such a manner,the piston chamber is therefore kept free from the external environmentand provides an effective location for pumping gas or liquid therein ina pressure relationship.

The inlet and outlet valves 720, 722 are unidirectional flow deviceswhich permit the flow of gas or liquid in to and out of the pistonchamber 719, respectively. It is to be appreciated that the valves 720,722 may be positioned at different locations on the piston housing cap710, so long as a desired pressure is achievable within the pistonchamber 719.

The inlet line 724 is adapted to be connected into a desired gas orliquid, and therefore provide a desired source of gas or liquid to bepumped by the buoyancy pumping device 700. The outlet line 726 iscoupled to the flow line 742, which in turn directs flow to a desiredlocation.

In operation, as a wave approaches the buoyancy pump device 700, thebuoyancy block 714, having a predetermined buoyancy, incrementally riseswith respect to the wave. The piston 718 will move in direct relation tothe buoyancy block 714, thereby expelling gas or liquid from the pistonchamber 719 through the outlet valve 722, outlet line 726, and flow line742. As the wave departs the buoyancy pump device 700, the buoyancyblock 714, urged by gravity, descends with respect to the wave. Thepiston 718, moving in direct relation to the descent of the buoyancyblock 714, likewise descends, thereby creating a vacuum within thepiston chamber 719. Gas or liquid is drawn through the inlet line 724and inlet valve 720 into the piston chamber 719, thereby filling thepiston chamber 719. The cycle continues to repeat in relation to thecycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water and the hydraulic orpneumatic system characteristics of the buoyancy pump device 700 itself.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a side elevational view of an alternativeembodiment of an exemplary buoyancy pumping device 800 is shown inaccordance with the principles of the present invention. The buoyancypump device 800 includes a base 802, a housing 804 connected to the base802, a housing cap 806 connected to the housing 804, and a housing base808 connected to the other end of the housing 804. A piston housing 810is axially disposed in a lower portion of the housing 804. The pistonhousing 810 includes a piston housing cap 812 and a piston housing base814. A piston housing ballast portion 816 is connected to the pistonhousing 810 at a lower portion thereof.

A buoyancy block 818 having a predetermined buoyancy, is disposed withinthe housing 804. A piston shaft 820 is connected to a lower end of thebuoyancy block 818 and extends axially therefrom. A piston 822 isconnected to the other end of the piston shaft 820. The piston 822 isadapted to axially move within the piston housing 810. A piston chamber824 is formed by a lower surface of the piston 822, the piston housingbase 814 and the piston housing 810.

An inlet valve is connected through the piston housing base 814 and incommunication with the piston chamber 824. Likewise, an outlet valve 828is connected to the piston housing base 814 and in communication withthe piston chamber 824. An inlet line 830 and an outlet line 832 isconnected to the other respective ends of the inlet valve 826 and outletvalve 828.

The base 802 includes support legs 834 which extend and connect to asupport base 836. The support base 836 is adapted to rest against afloor 838 of the body of water 840. Ballast tanks 842 are connected toan upper surface of the support base 836 and adapted to receive and/orexpel ballast and thereby maintain the position of the buoyancy pumpdevice 800 with respect to the body of water 840.

The housing 804 comprises a plurality of housing legs 844 connected tothe housing base 808 at one end and to the housing cap 806 at the otherend. The housing legs 844 allow water to freely flow therebetween.

A flow tank 846 is connected to the inlet line 830 and outlet line 832,and positioned on a surface of the housing base 808. The flow tank 846is further connected to a supply line 848 and a flow line 850. The flowtank 846 may control flow to and from the piston chamber 824, and directoutlet flow from the piston chamber 824 to a desired location throughthe flow line 850.

The buoyancy of the buoyancy block 818 is adjustable in a mannerdescribed above. The buoyancy block 818 is adapted to slideably axiallymove within the housing 804 in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamicsof the water 840 in which the buoyancy pump device 800 is positioned andthe hydraulic or pneumatic system characteristics of the buoyancy pumpdevice 800 itself.

The piston shaft 820 maintains the buoyancy block 818 and the piston 822in a fixed relationship, such that movement of the buoyancy block 818corresponds to movement of the piston 822.

The housing 804 has a plurality of buoyancy block stops 852 positionedon an inside of the housing legs 844 to limit axial movement of thebuoyancy block 818 therein. Likewise, the piston housing 810 has aplurality of piston stops 854 on an inner surface of the piston housing810 adapted to limit the axial movement of the piston 822 therein.

The inlet valve 826 and outlet valve 828 are unidirectional flow deviceswhich permit the flow of gas or liquid into and out of the pistonchamber 824, respectively. It is to be appreciated that the valves 826,828 may be positioned at differing locations on the piston housing base814, so long as the desired pressure is achievable within the pistonchamber 824.

In operation, as a wave having predetermined characteristics arrives atthe buoyancy pump device 800, the buoyancy block 818 and piston 822incrementally rise. A vacuum is created within the piston chamber 824,thereby drawing gas or liquid, depending on the supply source connectedto the supply line 848 is drawn into the piston chamber 824 through theinlet line 830 and inlet valve 826. As the wave departs the buoyancypump device 800, gravity urges the buoyancy piston axially downward,thereby compressing the gas or liquid within the piston chamber 824 andexhausting or expelling the gas or liquid within the piston chamber 824through the outlet valve 828, outlet line 832, flow tank 846 and flowline 850.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a side elevational view in an alternativeembodiment of an exemplary buoyancy pump device 900 is shown. Thebuoyancy pump device 900 includes a base 902, a housing 904 connected toa base 902, a housing cap 906 and a housing base 908. A housing ballastportion 909 is disposed axially above the housing cap 906.

A metallized piston 910 is disposed within the housing 904 and isadapted to axially move within the housing 904. Positioned outside ofthe housing 904 and adjacent to the ends of the piston 910 are aplurality of magnetized buoyancy blocks 912, having predeterminedbuoyancy. The magnetized buoyancy blocks 912 are positioned next to themetallized piston 910, such that movement of the magnetized buoyancyblock 912 corresponds to movement of the metallized piston 910 withinthe housing 904. A guide rail 911 is provided on the housing 904 toguide movement of the magnetized buoyancy block 912 in relation to themetallized piston 910. Piston chambers 913 a, 913 b are defined onopposite sides of the piston 910. A non-metallic seal 915 may be placedon and coupled to an outer surface of the metallized piston 910 betweenthe metallized piston 910 and the housing 904 to prevent fluid or liquidflow between the piston chambers 913 a, 913 b.

A first inlet valve 914 and a first outlet valve 916 are connectedthrough the housing cap 906 with the piston chamber 913a. The firstinlet valve 914 and first outlet valve 916 are connected through thehousing ballast portion 909 to a first inlet line 918 and a first outletline 920, respectively.

A second inlet valve 922 and a second outlet valve 924 are connected atone end through the housing base 908 with the piston chamber 913 b. Thesecond inlet valve 922 and second outlet valve 924 are connected atother respective ends to the second inlet line 926 and second outletline 928.

The base 902 includes a plurality of support legs 930 coupled at one endto the housing 904 and at the other end to a support base 932. Thesupport base 932 is adapted to rest against a floor 934 of a body ofwater 936 in which the buoyancy pump device 900 is placed.

The housing 904 includes a plurality of stops 938 on an externalsurface, which are adapted to limit axial movement of the magnetizedbuoyancy blocks 912. The outlet lines 920, 928 are connected to a flowline 940 for transmission of flow therein to a desired location.

The magnetized buoyancy blocks 912 move in a cycle conforming to thefluid dynamics of the water in which the buoyancy pump device 900 ispositioned and the hydraulic or pneumatic system characteristics of thebuoyancy pump device 900 itself. The buoyancy of the magnetized buoyancyblocks 912 may be adjusted by flooding the magnetized buoyancy blocks912 with a predetermined fluid or solid, or expelling from themagnetized buoyancy blocks 912 the predetermined fluid or solid.

The inlet valves 914, 922 and outlet valves 916, 924 are unidirectionalflow devices which permit the flow of gas or liquid into and out of thepiston chambers 913 a, 913 b. For example,) the first inlet valve 914allows flow into piston chamber 913 a, and the first outlet valve 916allows flow out of the piston chamber 913 a. The second inlet valve 922and second outlet valve 924 allow flow into and out of the pistonchamber 913 b. It is to be appreciated that the first inlet valve 914and first outlet valve 916 may be positioned at differing locations onthe housing cap 906. Likewise, the second inlet valve 922 and secondoutlet valve 924 may be positioned at differing locations on the housingbase 908, so long as a desired pressure is achievable within the pistonchambers 913 a, 913 b.

In operation, as a wave from the body of water 946 departs the buoyancypump device 900, the magnetized buoyancy blocks 912 incrementally lowerdue to gravity, thereby magnetically lowering the metallized piston 910to create a vacuum within the piston chamber 913 a. At the same time,the dropping of the magnetized buoyancy blocks 912 and metallized piston910 compresses the gas or liquid within the piston chamber 913 b. Thegas or liquid therein is exhausted or expelled through the second outletvalve 924, second outlet line 928 and into the flow line 940. In thepiston chamber 913 a, the vacuum draws gas or liquid from the firstinlet line 918 through the first inlet valve 914, and into the pistonchamber 913 a.

As the next wave approaches, the magnetized buoyancy blocks 912 andmetallized piston 910 incrementally rise in a magnetic interrelationshipwith respect to the passing water 936, thereby pressurizing the gas orliquid within the piston chamber 913 a and expelling the gas or liquidthrough the first outlet valve 916 and first outlet line 920 into flowline 940. The piston chamber 913 b becomes a vacuum, thereby drawing gasor liquid through the second inlet line 926, second inlet valve 922 andinto the piston chamber 913 b. The process is cyclically repeated witheach successive wave.

Should the pressure in either outlet valve 916, 924 inhibit movement ofthe metallized piston 910, the magnetic buoyancy blocks 912 willseparate from the metallized piston 910 to move with respect to thewave, and re-engage the metallized piston 910 in the next wave cycle.

Referring now to FIG. 10, yet another embodiment of an exemplarybuoyancy pump device 1000 is shown in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention. Buoyancy pump device 1000 includes a base 1002, ahousing 1004 connected to the base 1002, a housing cap 1006 connected tothe housing 1004 and a housing base 1008. A piston cylinder 1010 isdisposed within the housing 1004 and includes a piston cylinder cap1012, and a piston cylinder ballast portion 1014 connected to the pistoncylinder 1010 and disposed above the piston cylinder cap 1012. A piston1016 is adapted to axially move within the piston cylinder 1010. Abuoyancy block 1018 is axially positioned with the housing 1004 abovethe piston cylinder 1010 and is adapted to axially move within thehousing 1004. A plurality of piston shafts 1020 extend from a lowersurface of the piston 1016 and connected to lateral surfaces of thebuoyancy block 1018.

An inlet valve 1022 and an outlet valve 1024 are connected through thepiston cylinder cap 1012 to a piston chamber 1026 formed by the pistoncylinder cap 1012, piston cylinder 1010 and the upper surface of thepiston 1016. An inlet line 1028 and an outlet line 1030 are connected tothe inlet valve 1022 and outlet valve 1024 respectively. The inlet line1028 and outlet line 1030 extend through the piston cylinder ballastportion 1014.

The base 1002 includes support legs 1032 connected to a lower portion ofthe housing 1004 at one end and to a support base 1034 at the other end.The support base 1034 is adapted to rest against a floor 1036 of a bodyof water 1038. A ballast tank 1036 is connected to an upper portion ofthe support base 1034 to maintain the buoyancy pump device 1000 in afixed position relative to the body of water 1038.

The housing 1004 includes a plurality of housing legs 1042 which areadapted to allow the water 1038 to flow therebetween. The housing legs1042 connect to the housing base 1008. Housing 1004 further includes aplurality of stops 1045 formed on an inner surface of the plurality oflegs 1042 to limit axial movement of the buoyancy block 1018 therein.

Connected to the outlet line is a flow tank 1046, which is connected tothe housing base 1008. The flow tank 1046 is adapted to direct flowreceived from the outlet line 1030 and supply the flow from the outletline 1040 to a flow line 1048.

The piston cylinder 1010 is open at the end opposing the piston cylindercap 1012, such that water may contact the bottom surface of the piston1016. A seal (not shown) is provided on the perimeter of the piston 1016to prevent communication between the piston chamber 1026 and the body ofwater 1038.

The piston 1016, which is adjustable in a manner described above, isslidably axially movable within the piston cylinder 1010. Because thepiston 1016 and buoyancy block 1018 are connected via the piston shaft1020, movement of the buoyancy block 1018 corresponds in direct movementof the piston 1016.

The buoyancy block 1018 has a predetermined buoyancy, such that thebuoyancy block 1018 moves in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics ofthe water in which the buoyancy pump device 1000 is placed. The buoyancyof the buoyancy block 1018 may be adjusted in a manner described above,depending on the characteristics and fluid dynamics of the water and thesystem.

The inlet and outlet valves 1022, 1024 are unidirectional flow deviceswhich permit the flow of gas or liquid into and out of the pistonchamber 1026, respectively. It is to be appreciated that the valves1022, 1024 may be positioned at differing locations on the pistoncylinder cap 1012, so long as a desired pressure is achievable withinthe piston chamber 1026.

In operation, after the buoyancy pump device 1000 has been initiallyplaced in a body of water, such as ocean, lake, river or other waveproducing environment, the initial pressure in the outlet line 1030,valve 1024 and piston chamber 1026 begins at a zero-pressure state. Thewave, having recognized properties, arrives at the buoyancy pump device1000. Water from the wave incrementally lifts the buoyancy block 1018,thereby lifting the buoyancy block 1018 and a piston 1016. The gas orliquid that has been introduced into the piston chamber 1026 begins topressurize until the pressure in the piston chamber 1026 overcomes theline pressure in the outlet line 1030. At this point, the gas or liquidflows through the outlet valve 1024 and the outlet line 1030 and istransferred through the flow line 1048 to a desired location for use orstorage.

As the wave departs the buoyancy pump device 1000, gravity urges thebuoyancy block 1018 down, thereby resulting in a corresponding downwardaxial movement of the piston 1016 within the piston cylinder 1010. Avacuum is created within the piston chamber 1026, thereby drawing gas orliquid through the inlet line 1028, inlet valve 1022 and into the pistonchamber 1026. The cycle is cyclically repeated with each successivewave.

Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown exemplary side views of thebuoyancy pump device 100 of FIG. 1 as coupled to an exemplaryaquiculture rig 1100. In this configuration, the aquiculture rig 1100includes a plurality of ballast tanks 1110 concentrically arranged aboutand connected to the buoyancy pump device 100. The ballast tanks 1110are further connected to adjacent ballast tanks 1110 by a plurality ofguy wires 1120. The plurality of ballast tanks 1110 may vary in lengthor width in order to stabilize the buoyancy pump device 100 with respectto oncoming waves from a body of water 1130 in which the buoyancy pumpdevice 100 is positioned.

The previous description is of preferred embodiments for implementingthe invention, and the scope of the invention should not necessarily belimited by this description. The scope of the present invention isinstead defined by the following claims.

1. A buoyancy pump for use in a fluid, comprising: a buoyancy blockhousing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid mayflow; a buoyancy block disposed within the buoyancy chamber to moveaxially therein in a first direction responsive to rising of the fluidin the buoyancy chamber and a second direction responsive to lowering ofthe fluid in the buoyancy chamber; a piston cylinder connected to thebuoyancy block housing; at least one valve disposed in the pistoncylinder operating as an inlet in response to movement of the buoyancyblock in the second direction and an outlet in response to movement ofthe buoyancy block in the first direction; a piston slideably disposedwithin the piston cylinder and connected to the buoyancy block, thepiston being moveable in the first and second directions and responsiveto movement of the buoyancy block and in the second direction to draw afluid substance into the piston cylinder through the at least one valve,and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block in the first directionto output the fluid substance through the at least one valve; a baseconnected to the buoyancy block housing; and wherein the base comprisesa storage tank for the fluid substance.
 2. A buoyancy pump for use in afluid, comprising: a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chambertherein through which the fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposedwithin the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first directionresponsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a seconddirection responsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; apiston cylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least onevalve disposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in responseto movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outletin response to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve, a piston shaft interconnecting thepiston and the buoyancy block, and wherein the piston shaft has anadjustable length.
 3. A buoyancy pump for use in a fluid comprising: abuoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through whichthe fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposed within the buoyancychamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive torising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second directionresponsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; a pistoncylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least one valvedisposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in response tomovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet inresponse to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve; and a plurality of stops connected to aninner surface of the buoyancy block housing at a lower portion of thebuoyancy block housing, the plurality of stops defining a limit ofmovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction.
 4. A buoyancypump for use in a fluid, comprising: a buoyancy block housing defining abuoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid may flow; a buoyancyblock disposed within the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in afirst direction responsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancychamber and a second direction responsive to lowering of the fluid inthe buoyancy chamber; a piston cylinder connected to the buoyancy blockhousing; at least one valve disposed in the piston cylinder operating asan inlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the seconddirection and an outlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block inthe first direction; a piston slideably disposed within the pistoncylinder and connected to the buoyancy block, the piston being moveablein the first and second directions and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block and in the second direction to draw a fluid substanceinto the piston cylinder through the at least one valve, and responsiveto movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction to output thefluid substance through the at least one valve; and a plurality of axialshims connected to an inner perimeter of the buoyancy block housingadjacent the buoyancy block for minimizing friction between the buoyancyblock housing and the buoyancy block and for maintaining the buoyancyblock in a generally axial relationship with the piston.
 5. A buoyancypump for use in a fluid, comprising: a buoyancy block housing defining abuoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid may flow; a buoyancyblock disposed within the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in afirst direction responsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancychamber and a second direction responsive to lowering of the fluid inthe buoyancy chamber; a piston cylinder connected to the buoyancy blockhousing; at least one valve disposed in the piston cylinder operating asan inlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the seconddirection and an outlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block inthe first direction; a piston slideably disposed within the pistoncylinder and connected to the buoyancy block, the piston being moveablein the first and second directions and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block and in the second direction to draw a fluid substanceinto the piston cylinder through the at least one valve, and responsiveto movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction to output thefluid substance through the at least one valve; and wherein the buoyancyblock housing comprises a generally cylindrical cage having a pluralityof openings thereon adapted to allow the fluid to flow therein.
 6. Thebuoyancy pump of claim 5, wherein the generally cylindrical cage definesa turbulence opening thereon, the turbulence opening being adapted tominimize turbulence of the fluid.
 7. A buoyancy pump for use in a fluid,comprising: a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber thereinthrough which the fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposed within thebuoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsiveto rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second directionresponsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; a pistoncylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least one valvedisposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in response tomovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet inresponse to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve; and wherein the buoyancy block has apredetermined adjustable buoyancy.
 8. A buoyancy pump for use in afluid, comprising: a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chambertherein through which the fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposedwithin the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first directionresponsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a seconddirection responsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; apiston cylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least onevalve disposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in responseto movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outletin response to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve; and wherein the buoyancy block furthercomprises an upper portion and a lower portion moveably coupled to theupper portion.
 9. The buoyancy pump of claim 8, wherein the buoyancyblock further comprises: means for telescopically adjusting the lowerportion with respect to the upper portion.
 10. The buoyancy pump ofclaim 9, wherein the means for telescopically adjusting the lowerportion comprises: a motor connected to an upper surface of the lowerportion of the buoyancy block, the motor being adapted to rotate thelower portion of the buoyancy block in a predetermined direction andthereby telescope the buoyancy block.
 11. The buoyancy pump of claim 8,wherein the buoyancy block is radially expandable.
 12. The buoyancy pumpof claim 11, wherein the buoyancy block further comprises: a radiallyexpandable external seal; a plurality of outer plates connected to theexternal seal; a plurality of inner plates movably connected to theplurality of outer plates; a motor connected to a gear, the motor beingaxially disposed within the buoyancy block; and a plurality of expansionbars connected to the gear and to the outer plates, the plurality ofexpansion bars being adapted to radially expand and contract thebuoyancy block.
 13. A buoyancy pump for use in a fluid, comprising: abuoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through whichthe fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposed within the buoyancychamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive torising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second directionresponsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; a pistoncylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least one valvedisposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in response tomovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet inresponse to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve; and wherein the buoyancy block furthercomprises: a generally cylindrical axially tapered upper portion havinga plurality of threads on a cylindrical inside perimeter of the upperportion; and a generally cylindrical lower portion having a plurality ofthreads on an outer surface thereof adapted to mate with the pluralityof threads on the cylindrical inside perimeter of the axially taperedupper portion.
 14. A buoyancy pump for use in a fluid, comprising: abuoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through whichthe fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposed within the buoyancychamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive torising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second directionresponsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; a pistoncylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least one valvedisposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in response tomovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet inresponse to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve; and an aquiculture rig connected to thebuoyancy block housing for maintaining the position of the buoyancy pumpwith respect to the fluid.
 15. A buoyancy pump for use in a fluid,comprising: a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber thereinthrough which the fluid may flow; a buoyancy block disposed within thebuoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsiveto rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second directionresponsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber; a pistoncylinder connected to the buoyancy block housing; at least one valvedisposed in the piston cylinder operating as an inlet in response tomovement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet inresponse to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction; apiston slideably disposed within the piston cylinder and connected tothe buoyancy block, the piston being moveable in the first and seconddirections and responsive to movement of the buoyancy block and in thesecond direction to draw a fluid substance into the piston cylinderthrough the at least one valve, and responsive to movement of thebuoyancy block in the first direction to output the fluid substancethrough the at least one valve; and wherein the piston cylinder has anopen lower end, and a lower surface of the piston is adapted to contactthe fluid.
 16. The buoyancy pump of claim 15, further comprising: aplurality of piston stops disposed at a lower inner surface of thepiston cylinder to limit axial movement of the piston in the pistoncylinder in the second direction.